3 minute read
Racing and Sports will provide analysis of many games in the 2020 AFL Season.
We'll endeavour to run through the form, incorporate appropriate stats and also supply a betting prediction which won't always just be who will win.
CARLTON V PORT ADELAIDE
Sunday 19 July @ Gabba
Who would have thought that these two teams would be vying for the most interesting game of the round but as 2020 is a world gone mad – well why not!!
Conceding that so many will be having to eat their words, Carlton has made a statement and it was such a positive one.
Usually they are doing that for all the wrong reasons. But from the start of the year they appeared to have changed a bit.
Well last Sunday night, they appeared to have changed A LOT.
You could tell by the first five minutes when they had four holding the ball/incorrect disposal free-kicks to them that they were on.
Tackling, smothering, contesting and checking were all part of the game plan which dismantled the Bulldogs who could only survive until half time. After that it was eight goals to two.
The last time Carlton won a game by more than 50, it was about six Prime Minister's ago. Admittedly in Australia that is as long as a round of drinks of late.
It's been a long road back but there are signs. Also consider there is no Charlie Curnow who they've framed their set up around. But with Harry McKay developing for all eyes, that loss is not as much felt.
However how can you not love one E Betts? Every supporter in the comp thinks he's great. Those complete disgraces to society on social media who discriminate against him are banished to places only they deserve.
Eddie is near the end of his career but his verve and sprightliness has injected the Blues with a pep that they had hoped Tom Papley would be. Given that trade didn't occur, Eddie was a very decent second option. Play like no tomorrow Eddie – you star.
The other massive in for Carlton is Sam Docherty. His solidity, his composure, his leadership is something they've missed for several years. Don't downgrade that at all.
They get the ladder leaders at the Gabba after they rebounded so well over GWS.
It was a tight game all the way and when Finlayson kicked truly early in the last it could have gone either way. From that moment it went in only one direction.
Their dominance in the last stanza came from good contested ball and some booming kicking.
One thing is certain. If you see a Port player about 50m out, make sure you man up on Kane Farrell. He is a slight young kid with a hoof like Saintly. 70m drop punts are not out of the question.
There is an evenness about Port that is a big positive. Someone usually stands up. The issue will be if they get behind in a match, who will be the one take command much like Dangerfield did last round.
The Power is the one 'hubber' that has handled it so well. But they must be on the road soon home.
Going out on a limb and suggesting Carlton's match plan can pressure Port more than others have. They again look a good price.
Match Selection: Carlton by 7 points
Suggested Bets: Carlton @ $3.00
Suggested Bets: Carlton +16.5 points @ $1.90
